Ballykelly fish kill may have been caused by chemical agent

More than 400 fish have been killed in a County Derry river.

Loughs Agency was notified on Monday, October 13 of a suspected fish kill on the Ballykelly River, Ballykelly. 
  
Loughs Agency Fishery Officers were deployed to the scene, and they confirmed a substantial number of fish mortalities extending for around 500 metres downstream of the village, beginning immediately below a discharge pipe. A total of 422 dead fish were recorded, the majority of which were trout, along with several salmon and flounder. 
  
A thorough investigation into the incident was carried out in collaboration with NIEA’s Water Management Unit. No direct pollution source was identified. However, both agencies suspect that this fish kill may have been caused by a chemical agent, possibly a cleaning substance. 
  
Loughs Agency and NIEA are appealing to the public to help protect local waterways by keeping storm drains free from chemicals and waste. They should carry rainwater only, as other substances can reduce water quality and cause serious harm to aquatic life. 
  
While it is believed that the majority of the affected fish have been recovered, some may remain in the area. Anyone who discovers a dead fish in the area is asked to leave it and contact Loughs Agency directly on +44 (0) 28 71 342100 to arrange collection with a Fishery Officer.